Our dedicated team of educators, staff, and leaders is committed to supporting each student’s journey. Guided by our Anglican ethos, we cultivate an inclusive, supportive environment where every individual is valued and celebrated.
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Headmaster
BEd, MEdAdmin, Exec Lead Oxon, GAICD, FACEL
Wayne Brown was appointed Headmaster of Whanganui Collegiate School in 2018. Wayne has held boarding, and senior educational positions in the UK and Australia, along with serving as a trustee on several NFP boards in the last 10 years and is currently Chair of the Central North Island (CNI) Rugby.
Wayne has extensive knowledge, understanding, experience and passion for education, in particular boarding schools, building good young men and women to be inspiring role models within a global community. Wayne has also had a career in professional sport, both as a player and coach in basketball, notably, being Assistant Coach with the NZ Breakers in the professional Australian National Basketball League, 2003-2006.
A graduate of the Saïd Business School, Oxford University, where he studied Executive Leadership, Wayne has been recognised as a futurist thinker in character education and has been asked to speak at several conferences across NZ, and overseas.
Deputy Headmaster
BEd Tchg
Mrs Tash Bullock, our Deputy Headmaster is an inspiring leader with a long-standing commitment to fostering student and staff success. Joining our school in 2019, Mrs Bullock has continually advanced excellence in professional learning and development for teachers, and success in learning for our students, making her an invaluable asset to our community. Mrs Bullock understands the intrinsic nature and mutual importance of the teacher/student relationship and works to optimise this at Whanganui Collegiate School.
Mrs Bullock’s journey at Whanganui Collegiate School reflects her expertise and dedication in various leadership roles, including continuing to serve as Senior Master – Teaching and Learning, achieving accreditation as a Growth Coach with Growth Coaching International in 2023, leading as Head of Staff Development from 2021 to 2022, as Specialist Classroom Teacher from 2019 to 2021 and continues to teach English.
Her influence extends into critical areas such as staff development and curriculum leadership, where she has played a key role in implementing the Cambridge International curriculum at Year 11. Her exceptional leadership as Deputy Headmaster guides Whanganui Collegiate School into continued growth, providing students with an environment that nurtures achievement, resilience, and character.
Senior Master Administration
BEd Dist, HDip Ed Dist
Mr Rob van Dort joined Whanganui Collegiate School in 2001, and is an integral part of our community, bringing dedication, passion, and a deep understanding of our school’s rich traditions. Housemaster of Harvey House from 2001-2006, Mr van Dort has spent years fostering a strong sense of community and guiding students through their Collegiate journey. Today, he continues to play a pivotal role as the manager of the School Calendar and key events, ensuring the seamless organisation of our busy school life. Known as the go-to person for all things, his wealth of knowledge adds depth and continuity to our vibrant and traditional culture.
In the classroom, Mr van Dort shares his expertise as a Teacher of Geography, inspiring students to explore and understand the world around them. On the Sports field, he serves as a Cricket Coach and Hockey Manager, nurturing talent and teamwork.
Beyond the classroom, Mr van Dort has a keen eye for detail and creativity and is an exceptional photographer. His stunning work features prominently in many of our school publications, capturing the essence of Collegiate life and the beauty of our surroundings.
Senior Master Pastoral Care and Wellbeing
BEd CFLE, Dip Tchg
Mrs Sjaane Simpson has been an integral part of Whanganui Collegiate School since 2017. A dedicated educator and mentor, she served as Housemaster of Bishops House until 2022, fostering a nurturing environment and guiding students through their formative years. Mrs Simpson remains actively involved in House, offering evening tutoring in Bishops House once a week. An experienced and passionate English teacher, she holds a Bachelor of Education (Certified Family Life Educator – CFLE) and a Diploma of Teaching, showcasing her commitment to excellence in education. She also shares her enthusiasm for sport as a badminton coach, encouraging students to achieve both on and off the court.
Beyond the classroom, Mrs Simpson plays a vital role in student wellbeing, overseeing the holistic Hauora (wellbeing) of our students. She works closely with our House staff, Heads of Year, and Academic and Support teams to ensure every student is supported academically, socially, and emotionally.
Senior Master Boarding
BA Theology (Hons), PGCE Sec
As Senior Master of Boarding, Mr Jones is at the helm of our boarding programme’s leadership and strategic development. A key member of the School’s Executive team, Mr Jones is committed to fostering a vibrant, supportive environment where students can excel academically and grow personally, with a strong focus on holistic wellbeing.
Originally from the UK, Mr Jones has a life of boarding. He has held several key boarding positions, in particular Assistant Housemaster at Marlborough College. As Housemaster of Harvey House for six years, Mr Jones brings extensive leadership experience and insight to his role. During his time as Housemaster, he guided Whanganui Collegiate through the Boarding Schools’ Association (BSA) accreditation process, showcasing his commitment to the highest standards in boarding care and management. Mr Jones’ dedication to promoting our boarding programme locally, nationally, and internationally has played a pivotal role in enhancing the school’s reputation as a premier boarding institution.
As Senior Master, Boarding, Mr Jones focus remains on creating a welcoming and dynamic residential life experience that aligns with the school’s mission and supports each student’s journey toward independence, resilience, and success.
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Director of Sport
BEd (Hons) Educational Management, HDip ED Physical Education
Mr Shane Gaffney joined Whanganui Collegiate School in 2023, as Director of Sport. He brings a wealth of expertise in sports and co-curricular leadership from his previous role as Assistant Principal: Co-Curricular at Scots College, Wellington. Before Scots College, Mr Gaffney held significant leadership positions in South Africa, including Director of Sport and Director of Cricket at Hilton College, Deputy Headmaster at St David’s Marist Inanda, and Headmaster of St Dominic’s College.
With a career dedicated to nurturing student talent and building holistic, high-achieving sports programmes, Mr Gaffney consistently demonstrates his ability to deliver strong results across various sport codes. He drives a tradition of success and fostering sporting excellence across a wide range of activities and is committed to leading and elevating the school’s sports programme through increased participation, performance, and promotion. Guided by a strategic approach, sound financial management, and collaborative leadership Mr Gaffney continues to further enhance our school’s well-established sports programmes.
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Housemaster Bishops House
B SpLs, BSoc Sc (Hons), MSocSc, PGDip Teaching, PGDip Community Psych
Miss Joline Henry joined Bishops House as Housemaster in 2022, with husband, Leif, and their two children. A former Silver Fern netballer, Miss Henry represented NZ 91 times, winning Gold at the World Netball Championships in 2009, and Commonwealth Games Gold in 2010.
With an extensive background in education, Miss Henry is passionate about fostering both personal and academic growth in students, creating supportive environments where students can thrive, build confidence, and develop resilience.
Miss Henry is an Old Girl of WCS, and before returning home to Whanganui, Miss Henry taught at Harrow International School in Hong Kong, where she was highly regarded for her commitment to student-centred learning and her ability to create enriching, holistic educational experiences.
In Bishop’s House, Miss Henry is a respected mentor and role model, encouraging students to embrace new challenges and supporting them as they navigate their journey through high school. Her focus on community, teamwork, and respect has created a positive and engaging environment where every student is encouraged to succeed.
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Housemaster Godwin House
Mrs Robyn Worthington, along with her husband Sean and their four children, joined Godwin House as Housemaster in 2024. Mrs Worthington brings exceptional experience and leadership in pastoral care, having worked in boarding environments across South Africa and New Zealand, including at St Peter’s College, Cambridge. Her commitment to the well-being and holistic development of her students is at the heart of her role in Godwin House.
Mrs Worthington has completed numerous programmes in literacy and student support, equipping her with extensive expertise in fostering academic and personal growth for young women. Her approach blends robust routines with a warm, supportive environment, ensuring each student in Godwin House feels valued and empowered.
Mrs Worthington has harnessed her background in communication and administration to build a caring and structured environment, where routines are designed to promote well-being, resilience, and positive relationships. Her holistic approach reflects her passion for helping each girl reach her full potential, both academically and personally.
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Housemaster Selwyn House
BEd BPE
Mr Selwyn Hodges, along with his wife Jess and their children, joined Selwyn House as Housemaster in 2021. With a background in teaching both Physical Education and Mathematics, Mr Hodges brings a wealth of experience and dedication to the students at Whanganui Collegiate. His career includes roles at international and New Zealand schools, including the Abu Dhabi Education Council as well as at Selwyn College, Auckland and Bethlehem College, Tauranga.
Mr Hodges also serves as the school’s Round Square Coordinator, fostering a global perspective and encouraging students to grow as compassionate, engaged global citizens. Through this programme, he promotes and facilitates leadership, service, and an understanding of international issues, helping students expand their horizons and build meaningful connections through conference and exchange.
A dedicated sportsman, Mr Hodges coaches the First XI Football team. His dual focus on academics and athletics provides Selwyn House students with a well-rounded, supportive environment, where they are encouraged to excel in all aspects of school life.
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Housemaster Grey House
PG Cert Ed, BSocSc, SportMg Dip
Mr Chris Nevay, his wife Mandy, and their two sons joined Grey House as Housemaster in 2025. With an extensive background in boys’ boarding and leadership roles at renowned South African schools like Selborne College, and Maritzburg College, Mr Nevay brings a wealth of experience in creating supportive and structured environments for young men. After moving to New Zealand in 2024, he taught History and Social Studies at Macleans College in Auckland.
A passionate sportsman and dedicated coach, Mr Nevay led the Macleans 1st XI Cricket and 1st Hockey teams and has previously coached provincial teams in South Africa. His enthusiasm for sports is matched by his commitment to character education and the holistic development of young men. With his academic expertise in History and a strong emphasis on personal growth Mr Nevay balances academic and personal development fostering a space where students are supported in both their studies and extracurricular pursuits.
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Housemaster Hadfield House
BHMS Exercise Science & Sport Management, PGCE
Mr Chris Carey, together with his wife Mel and their two children, joined Hadfield House in 2024. With over a decade of boarding experience, including his previous role as Senior Housemaster at Hilton College in South Africa, Mr Cary brings a depth of knowledge in creating supportive and structured living environments.
Passionate about fostering leadership and community, Mr Carey ensures Hadfield House is a safe and welcoming space where students can thrive. His background in teaching Life Skills and Physical Education at Cambridge A Level underscores his commitment to both academic and personal development. Mr Carey also brings rich experience in athletics, having previously served as Master in Charge of Athletics, as well as coaching Rugby, and Swimming.
Mr Carey’s holistic approach and dedication to well-being empowers students to excel, build resilience, and feel a true sense of belonging within their house community.
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Housemaster Harvey House
MSC, BSC, PGCE
Mr Craig Peebles, along with his wife Elena and their two young daughters, joined Harvey House as Housemaster in 2025. With a diverse background in education and boarding across Zimbabwe, the United Kingdom, and New Zealand, Mr Peebles brings a wealth of international experience and a deep commitment to student development. Prior to joining Whanganui Collegiate, he taught Physical Education and Science at Waiuku College and held significant boarding responsibilities at Chigwell School in the United Kingdom.
Mr Peebles is passionate about sports having served as Director of Rowing at St Paul’s Collegiate School in Hamilton, where he also worked as an Assistant Housemaster. He has also coached rugby at high levels, showcasing his dedication to fostering a balanced and well-rounded education.
In Harvey House, Mr Peebles is committed to creating a nurturing environment that promotes both academic success and personal growth. His holistic approach encourages students to excel not only in their studies but also in their personal extracurricular pursuits, making Harvey House a supportive and dynamic community.
